Vicente B. Chiong, M.D.

Vicente B. Chiong, M.D. was born of the waters of Camiguin Island, Philippines to the late Victorina Baquegon and Narciso Tagotugen Chiong on October 27, 1927. He learned to swim before he learned to walk. His childhood was spent more beneath the tropical water than above it. He dove for pearls, often holding his breath underwater for three minutes.

Salt water flowed through his veins. He was a sailor at heart and later gifted his children with many island hopping excursions around South Florida and in the Bahamas in the 1970s. His navigational skills were nonpareil, and he was often called upon to rescue others lost at sea.

Vicente was exceptional on dry land, too. He planted, cultivated, and harvested a ten-acre avocado grove in Homestead, FL. He was a brilliant engineer and reveled in countless inventions never patented.

Vicente received his medical degree from Manilla Central University, Philippines and was one of the early pioneering general surgeons of South Florida beginning in the 1950’s at Dade County Hospital and Baptist Hospital. Later, he opened private practices in Homestead Florida (1964-1987) before relocating to Boca Raton (1987-2019). In retirement, he and his beloved wife Violet regularly volunteered at Caridad Center in Boynton Beach for over 25 years.

Additionally, he served as ship doctor on Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Lines, was a long-term member of Homestead Power Squadron, and faithful usher at St. Jude’s Catholic Church in Boca Raton. He eventually traded in his sailboat and stethoscope for dancing shoes. “Vic and Vi” were a hit on the ballroom dance floor. They travelled the world to enter competitions and teach ballroom dancing on Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Holland America Cruise Lines. Vic found time to give back to the local chapter of USABDA (US Ballroom Dancing Association).

Vic set sail on the next leg of his journey on May 27, 2023, on the anniversary of his mother’s passing (1977). He is survived by his loving wife of over fifty years, Violeta B. Chiong, M.D., his children Vince, Raven, Teri (Daryl), Chris, Rob and numerous nieces, nephews as well as grandchildren and great grandchildren in the Philippines. Additionally, he is survived by sister-and brothers-in-law, Nina, Manny, and Oscar Bolanos and closest friends Nestor and Lou Megano and Lita (Luke) Espiritu, M.D. He is predeceased by his sisters Aniceta and Pacita and ex-wife, Verna, beloved mother of four of his children.

Vic’s family wishes to thank Miami Jewish Health and special caregiver “Mila” who were there for him in his final years.

We stand on the shore waving you on to the great beyond. Godspeed, Captain Vic. Sail on!

Vic’s earthly remains will be interred at The Gardens of Boca Raton cemetery. There will be no services, per his wishes. Living your best life is the best way to honor him.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests any memorial donations be sent to St. Jude’s Catholic Church Boca which served as Vic’s and Violet’s spiritual home for over four decades.